According to legend, Eastre is responsible for the transition between winter and spring. One year she ushered in spring late. As a result, a bird's wings were permanently damaged by the cold. To atone for her mistake, Eastre transformed the bird into a hare that lays eggs on one day of the year: Easter. Missionaries altered this pagan tradition to align with Christianity. Both the rabbit and the spring became associated as symbols of new life and renewal.

The first recorded mention of the Easter bunny dates back to the 1500s in German writings. German immigrants settling in Pennsylvania in the 1700s carried the Easter bunny tradition from Europe to the American colonies. The children of these immigrants built nests for the Easter bunny who would visit and lay colored eggs. The egg-laying rabbit eventually started bringing gifts and candy in addition to the eggs. The first edible Easter bunny confection was made in the 1800s. The eggs and candy brought by the Easter bunny are now a major commercial aspect of the holiday. Learn more about Easter Sources history.comuniverse.byu.eduexoticpets.about.com

Lynne, I loved this Easter post..especially the picture of my dear friend and her son taken so many years ago. Right now every holiday is a bit of a struggle..and painful..but I still see the beauty of Springtime and your post helped me remember the good times and to know that sorrow will pass in time. I loved the little handmade bunny and the eggs blown by you so many years ago. Did you hand paint the bunnies? I didn't unpack my Easter things this year for the first time..I will next year and I will remember the good times and enjoy every moment. I also enjoyed reading your friends post on the history of Easter. Those stories are always so interesting. Have a wonderful weekend..I love you!Mona

I had never heard the legend of Eastre before, but I'm glad I have now. I like your bunny paintings and the pretty blown eggs you made. I always get a bit nostalgic at Easter. It makes me miss my Mom. Easter usually fell within a few days of her birthday. Easter was always a family get together back than, and the tradition still continues now with my daughter, son in law, grandson, my sweet sisters in law, and their families.

My Easter memories are celebrating Christ's resurrection with my family. Sometimes sunrise services. This year Dennis and I will celebrate the late service inside our church; too cold for us at 7:30 here. The photo of you with the puppies is adorable. xo

Lynne, I loved all your Easter Memories. My favorites were your son on that giant snow bunny and you holding the puppy. Sooooo cute! And, I love that you have eggs you dyed and blew 25 years ago!! So many good things here. It is a season of Life and Hope. blessings and hugs ~ tanna

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